Planning Manager (or Ambitious Senior Planner Ready to Step Up)
Location: [Derbyshire]
Salary + Car Allowance + Bonus + Private Healthcare + Pension
Full-time | Permanent | Housebuilding Sector
Tired of being a cog in someone else’s machine?
This is your chance to become the voice of planning in a privately owned, well-funded housebuilder. You’ll work hand in hand with the owner, setting the planning agenda and seeing your impact from day one.
We’re looking for someone with 3/4+ years of planning experience (developer, consultancy or LPA side). Maybe you’re a Senior Planner who is ready to take the next step, or perhaps you’re already a Planning Manager looking for more ownership, more say, and less red tape.
You’ll lead on:
Planning strategy, pre-apps, and full submissions
Consultant management & stakeholder engagement
Site evaluation and planning risk reviews
Keeping landowners informed & onside
Representing the company with officers, committees & the public
This role is central, not peripheral – ideal for someone who wants their voice heard and their work respected.
What’s in it for you?
✔️ A proper seat at the table
✔️ Direct access to the owner (not layers of middle management)
✔️ Autonomy, clarity, and support
✔️ Strong pipeline of sites and backing to do the job properly
Overview
A privately owned, design-led residential developer is looking for an astute and forward-thinking Planning Manager or an ambitious Senior Planner ready to step into their first leadership role.
This is a rare opportunity to become the voice of planning within the business, working hand in glove with the owner to shape and deliver the planning strategy across a strong pipeline of sites.
You’ll lead on planning, from early-stage site assessments to managing applications, consultants, community engagement and relationships with local authorities. If you’ve ever wanted a seat at the table, not just a desk in the corner - this is it.
What You’ll Be Doing
Drive Planning Strategy
Set the tone for planning in the business by shaping policy responses, influencing land acquisition decisions, and confidently navigating planning risks.
Work Side-by-Side with the Owner
You’ll report directly to the owner, a hands-on leader with a genuine interest in planning. Expect regular collaboration, clear direction, and space to operate.
Lead Applications from Start to Finish
Take ownership of all planning applications – from pre-app and consultant briefs to submission and decision. You’ll run the process, manage the consultants, and keep it on track.
Spot Opportunities, Flag Risks
Work closely with the land team to assess new sites. Your input will guide key acquisition decisions and help secure a solid, planning-positive pipeline.
Be Our Planning Voice with Stakeholders
Build strong relationships with local authorities, planning officers, consultants, and communities. You’ll represent the company at public events and consultations with professionalism and credibility.
Keep Landowners in the Loop
Maintain regular updates for landowners on progress, key milestones, and next steps, ensuring confidence and clarity.
Monitor, Report, Resolve
Track progress, preempt problems, and keep things moving smoothly. Your calm head and methodical approach will ensure deadlines and decisions stay on course.